It has become clear over the last two weeks that the Recreation Grounds at Portrush would not be available for the Contest in August 2018. This was despite very firm written assurances received by RSPBANI in March 2018 from Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council that they would be available and further assurances more recently. The Recreation Grounds presently contains a very large compound for the Contractors carrying out environmental improvements for Portrush to prepare for the British Open, there has been hundreds of tonnes of rubble deposited on the access path to the tennis courts. The cost of moving the rubble and the compound has been estimated at over 100K.

The Council and RSPBANI have surveyed the Portrush area at considerable length and the only suitable space to use as an alternative is within the adjacent Landsdowne Car Park. Given the very late notice that RSPBANI were given, the knowledge that many of our bands, visiting bands and supporters have made arrangements to be in Portrush and that the Contest this year is one week before the World Championships the RSPBANI Executive Committee decided that accepting the move reluctantly was the only viable option rather than cancellation.

The Council have committed to putting every effort possible into making the change of venue work, Displaced Car parking for two hundred plus cars will be facilitated within the Recreation Grounds tennis courts, the venue will be free of charge to all those attending and our Project Officer and a Council Event Officer will be liaising daily to ensure that as many arrangements as possible are planned and put into effect to make the change work well as an alternative venue.

Congratulations to the following RSPBANI band and Drum Majors who were successful on Saturday 30th June at the European Pipe Band Championships which were held in ForresWell done to everyone who took part!

Local piper and drummer, William Wallace and Barney Megoran will be offering piping and drumming workshops every Wednesday during July and August at the Arnold Hall, near Spa Presbyterian Church [BT24 8YY] outside Ballynahinch.

These workshops are open for all although starting from children who are starting P5 in September. There is no charge for the summer school but beginners will be required to purchase their own chanter or drum pad and sticks. William or Barney can arrange to get these.Come along on Wednesday 4th July for enrolment and registration and a workshop any time from 10.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.

After the initial registration, more details of the lessons will be given as students will be required to come at different times depending on their level.